The German national team is on the brink of reaching the Final Four of the Nations League after a hard-fought 2:1 victory over Italy in the first leg. As they approach the second leg, set for Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the iconic Signa-Iduna-Park in Dortmund, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and expectation among fans.
Bundestrainer Julian Nagelsmann is cautious yet optimistic about the team's chances as they prepare for the return match. "Aus Trainersicht würde ich sagen: 50 Prozent, weil es das erste Spiel war. […] Wir tun aber alle gut daran, in Dortmund wieder bei 0:0 zu starten," he noted, highlighting the idea that the match is still very much in the balance. This suggests a tactical reset where Germany cannot underestimate their opponents despite the slight edge from the first leg.
The game kicks off at 20:45, but RTL will begin their live television broadcast at 20:15. Fans can tune in to watch the action unfold with the coverage led by moderator Florian König, alongside expert analysis from Lothar Matthäus and commentary from Marco Hagemann. For those preferring to stream, RTL+ offers a convenient platform, although live sports access is restricted to the Premium and Max subscription packages.
The history between Germany and Italy adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup. In their 38 encounters, Germany has managed to clinch victory 10 times, while Italy has triumphed on 15 occasions, with 13 matches ending in draws. Despite this historical backdrop, Italy has struggled in recent years against Germany, failing to secure a win in their last seven games; their last victory was back in 2012 during the European Championship semi-finals.
Clearly, the stakes are high as Germany aims to solidify their spot in the Final Four. The victory in the first leg has renewed hope amongst players and fans alike. Yet, Nagelsmann emphasizes the need to maintain focus, stressing that every match brings unique challenges. The loud and passionate Dortmund crowd is expected to play a pivotal role, providing the team with the much-needed support to reach their goal.
The upcoming match not only represents a chance for a prestigious advancement in the Nations League but also highlights the enthusiasm surrounding German football. Fans can view the match either via traditional broadcasting on RTL or through live streaming on RTL+, which offers a variety of subscription packages. The Basic package is priced at €5.99 per month, while the Premium and Max packages are offered at €8.99 and €12.99, respectively. However, it is important to note that only the Premium and Max options allow access to live sports.
The Tuesday before the match showcased the fervor of fans as they geared up for what promises to be another thrilling encounter. Anticipation is rife, as this match could mark the next step in the journey towards international glory for the German national team.
As the teams prepare for this decisive clash, all eyes will be on Dortmund. Can Germany maintain their successful run against Italy, or will the Squadra Azzurra rise to the occasion and turn the tide? The answer will unfold live as supporters witness this significant chapter in Nations League history. Regardless of the outcome, the legacy of both teams will continue to evolve with each passing match, keeping fans at the edge of their seats.